Lung Cancer - Signs and Symptoms
Early signs of lung cancer may be difficult to detect without a screening because symptoms usually take time to develop. However, the earlier lung cancer is found, the greater the chance of survival. It is important to see your health care provider if you have:
- A cough that doesn’t go away
- A cough that causes you to bring up blood
- Shortness of breath, wheezing or hoarseness
- Chest pain
- Swelling of the face and neck
- Arm pain or weakness
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
Who should be screened?
Those who are at an increased risk of lung cancer are:
- 50-77 years old
- Current smokers or former smokers, who have a 20 pack per year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.
Breast Cancer - Signs and Symptoms
There may not be symptoms that appear during the early stages of breast cancer, which is why routine screening mammograms are important for detecting the cancer as early as possible. The most common signs and symptoms are:
- A lump or thickness in the breast or underarm area
- A change in color, feel, size or shape of the breast or nipple
- Unusual pain in the breast or an unusual discharge
Who should receive a screening mammogram?
Most women should have yearly breast cancer screenings if they:
- Are 40 years or older.
- Have a family history of breast cancer, especially a first- or second- degree relative who has had the disease.
- Have a personal or family history of certain genetic mutations.
- Have dense breasts.
- Are considered high risk for breast cancer
Colon Cancer - Signs and Symptoms
- A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or blood in the stool
- Cramping or pain in the lower abdominal (stomach) area
- Constant tiredness or lack of energy
Who should be screened?
Generally, men and women at average risk of developing a colorectal cancer should begin screenings at age 45 and continue every 10 years if the results are normal. Some should be screened earlier if they have a higher risk of getting colorectal cancer. Men and women are also encouraged to speak with their physician about colonoscopies if they:
- Have had colorectal cancer before.
- Have a history of ovarian, uterine, or breast cancer.
- Have a family history of colorectal cancer or other genetic factors (e.g. Lynch syndrome, or familial polyposis).
- Have a personal history of colorectal polyps.
- Have Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), also known as Crohn’s disease or Colitis.
- Are obese and/or are physically inactive.
- Are regular tobacco or alcohol users.
- Have a diet that is high fat or high in red or processed meat and low in fiber, calcium, fruit and vegetables.
- Have Type 2 diabetes.